In this episode of the PowerTech Development Podcast, Eric and Andy reflect on the parenting journey from early youth hockey days to one of the biggest milestones in any hockey family: the NHL Draft.
Andy shares the emotional experience of watching his son get drafted to the Dallas Stars, how he navigated being both a coach and a dad, and where he sometimes went too far. Together, they offer honest, real-world advice for parents who want to support their kids without pushing them too hard.
This episode is packed with insight for anyone involved in youth sports — parents, coaches, and players alike.
Key Themes:
Why time changes your perspective as a parent
The difference between “nudging” and “pushing” your child
Letting kids take ownership of their development
Creating safe, honest environments for young athletes
Why enjoying the journey matters more than the outcome
02:00 – Time Passing: Eric reflects on growing out of playing; Andy on stepping away from business and battling complacency
09:00 – NHL Draft Moment: Andy shares the experience of watching his son get drafted by the Dallas Stars 14:30 – Never Forced: Why Andy never made his son play or pressured him to pursue hockey
17:30 – Nudge, Don’t Push: What it means to support your kid without forcing them
26:30 – Player Autonomy: Letting athletes come up with ideas and make choices
29:50 – Honest Development Environments: Eric on removing judgment so players don’t hide struggles
34:00 – Overstepping: Andy shares times he went too far as a parent and coach
39:00 – Long-Term Perspective: Andy’s goals when his son started playing vs. now
49:00 – Enjoy the Journey: Why parents need to take pride in the process, not just the results
🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube 📲 Follow us: @powertechonline | @epzolo
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